Prompt Cast
The Controversy Surrounding Gene Patents and its Ethical and Social Challenges
TLDR Gene patents have sparked controversy as some argue that genes, which are a product of nature, should not be patentable. Critics claim that gene patents create monopolies and hinder access to life-saving treatments, while proponents argue that patents incentivize research and innovation. The controversy extends to ethical and social challenges, with issues such as terminator technology and its impact on farmers.
Timestamped Summary
00:00
Gene patents are a topic of discussion in this podcast episode.
04:35
In the 1980s, a company called Novo Nordisk received a patent for a product called Nenormon, which was a landmark event in the field of gene patents.
08:57
The first gene patent was issued to the University of California for a hormone engineered for milk production and breast cancer treatment.
13:33
The US patent office issued new guidelines in 2001 stating that anyone can apply for a gene patent, but they must meet certain criteria, such as knowing what the gene does or having a process that uses the gene.
18:14
If you are issued a patent, you have 20 years of exclusivity to use, market, and sell your invention or process unless others pay you for it.
22:38
Gene patents are categorized into four types: diagnostics, functional use, process, and composition of matter, with diagnostics and composition of matter being the most controversial.
27:27
The controversy with gene patents lies in the argument of whether genes, which are a product of nature, should be patentable, or if the manipulation and extraction of genes justifies granting patents to corporations.
32:09
The controversy surrounding gene patents extends to ethical and social challenges, with proponents arguing that patents incentivize research and innovation, while critics argue that gene patents create monopolies and hinder access to life-saving treatments.
36:43
Terminator technology, where a suicide gene is inserted into genetically modified seeds, prevents farmers from reusing seeds and forces them to buy new ones from companies like Monsanto every year, creating a monopoly and hindering access to seeds.
41:14
The hosts discuss their views on Turkey and the misconceptions about the country, including its culture, climate, and cities like Istanbul.
Categories:
Society & Culture
